The Invisible Threat: Why Sri Lanka Must Prioritize Education in Digital Security, Rights, and Literacy
Did you know that your personal information might already be floating in cyberspace, vulnerable to misuse? In today’s hyper-connected world, digital threats have become an invisible enemy we all face. For Sri Lanka, where digital penetration is growing rapidly, the urgency to prioritize education in digital literacy, security, rights cannot be overstated. It’s not just about protecting data, it’s about safeguarding individuals, values, and the future.
Sri Lanka stands at a critical juncture in its digital transformation. With over half of its population now online, the country is experiencing rapid growth in internet access, e-commerce, and digital governance. Yet, as Sri Lankans embrace the opportunities these advancements bring, they also encounter a rising tide of threats—from cyberattacks targeting personal data to the spread of disinformation undermining public trust.
In this evolving digital landscape, education in digital literacy, security and rights is not just an option, it is an absolute necessity. Without it, Sri Lanka risks leaving its people, particularly its youth, ill-prepared to benefit from the opportunities of the digital age safely and responsibly
Current Landscape of Sri Lanka
As of 2024, Sri Lanka boasts an internet penetration rate of approximately 55%, with millions of citizens relying on smartphones and social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp for communication, education, and business. Initiatives such as LankaPay and e-government services underscore the country’s shift toward modern digital infrastructure. However, this growth has not been accompanied by a corresponding increase in awareness about digital security, literacy and rights.
Reports from the Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT|CC) highlight a sharp rise in cybercrimes, including phishing scams and unauthorized access to personal data. At the same time, the country faces challenges like low digital literacy rates and inadequate legal frameworks to address issues such as online harassment and data misuse.
Sri Lanka is eagerly embracing the digital age, with advancements in online banking and e-governance shaping its future. Yet, with this digital expansion comes an increased risk of vulnerabilities. As more people connect to the internet, the stakes for safeguarding digital security have never been higher.
The Consequences of Neglect
The lack of widespread education in digital security, hygiene, and rights has far-reaching implications for Sri Lanka. Cyberattacks have already caused significant harm to both individuals and organizations. In 2023 alone, CERT|CC reported over 3,500 incidents, ranging from phishing schemes targeting bank accounts to ransomware attacks crippling small businesses. Beyond financial losses, these breaches often lead to emotional distress and a loss of trust in digital systems. At a societal level, the unchecked spread of disinformation and misinformation poses an equally dangerous threat. During times of political and social unrest, social media platforms have become breeding grounds for divisive narratives, often exacerbating tensions. A lack of understanding about the origins and impact of such content leaves many citizens vulnerable to manipulation. Over time, this destruction of trust in information sources and institutions can weaken the very foundations of democracy, undermining progress in governance and civic engagement.
Digital Security Education: A Crucial Need
Education is pivotal in addressing the growing digital security and data justice challenges in Sri Lanka. Consider this: without an understanding of phishing, how can you protect yourself from falling victim to it? Digital education provides people with the essential critical thinking and hands-on skills needed to identify and tackle online threats. For instance, countries like Estonia, which rank highly in digital security education, have integrated cybersecurity curricula into their school systems, significantly enhancing individuals’ ability to withstand digital risks. Sri Lanka, too, stands to gain from such an approach, offering educational programs that span all age groups—from young students to adults in the workforce.
Digital education, however, is not limited to basic technical knowledge. It fosters a broader culture of digital responsibility, where individuals are educated about their online rights, the ethical use of technology, and how to safeguard their personal data. This comprehensive approach is vital for ensuring a society that is both informed and resilient in the face of digital threats.
Moreover, Sri Lanka’s educators, cybersecurity experts, and policymakers are increasingly recognizing the need for a well-structured and cohesive approach to digital education. Programs such as youth-targeted workshops, digital rights campaigns, and professional certifications are all key steps in addressing the knowledge gap and reducing vulnerabilities. Experts like Ziyam Abdeen have already empowered thousands of students and professionals through training, playing a critical role in shaping a cybersecurity-conscious society. These initiatives are crucial in equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills to build a safer, more just digital world.
Collaborating for Digital Inclusion in Sri Lanka
Education is pivotal in addressing the growing digital security and data justice challenges in Sri Lanka. Consider this: without an understanding of phishing, how can you protect yourself from falling victim to it? Digital education provides people with the essential critical thinking and hands-on skills needed to identify and tackle online threats. For instance, countries like Estonia, which rank highly in digital security education, have integrated cybersecurity curricula into their school systems, significantly enhancing individuals’ ability to withstand digital risks. Sri Lanka, too, stands to gain from such an approach, offering educational programs that span all age groups—from young students to adults in the workforce.
Digital education, however, is not limited to basic technical knowledge. It fosters a broader culture of digital responsibility, where individuals are educated about their online rights, the ethical use of technology, and how to safeguard their personal data. This comprehensive approach is vital for ensuring a society that is both informed and resilient in the face of digital threats.
Moreover, Sri Lanka’s educators, cybersecurity experts, and policymakers are increasingly recognizing the need for a well-structured and cohesive approach to digital education. Programs such as youth-targeted workshops, digital rights campaigns, and professional certifications are all key steps in addressing the knowledge gap and reducing vulnerabilities. Experts like Ziyam Abdeen have already empowered thousands of students and professionals through training, playing a critical role in shaping a cybersecurity-conscious society. These initiatives are crucial in equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills to build a safer, more just digital world.
From Blueprint to Action: Turning Plans into Reality
In conclusion, tackling the complex challenges surrounding digital literacy, security, and rights in Sri Lanka requires a comprehensive, forward-thinking strategy that centers on education and community participation. The next critical steps must involve broadening the scope of digital literacy programs across all sectors, particularly within schools, universities, and non-governmental organizations. This initiative is essential for ensuring that every Sri Lankan, especially the younger generation, is equipped with the skills necessary to navigate the digital realm safely and responsibly. As of 2023, the Sri Lankan government has acknowledged digital literacy as a key enabler of economic empowerment, targeting underserved communities—including women and rural populations—through programs like Suhuruliya 2.0, which is aligned with the National Digital Strategy 2030. However, overcoming infrastructure challenges, such as limited internet access in rural areas, remains critical to ensuring that digital tools are accessible to everyone.
Having led numerous sessions on digital rights and security, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact these initiatives can have. The positive outcomes and the active participation of youth from different sectors have underscored the vital role such sessions play in enhancing awareness and equipping participants with the necessary skills to safeguard their personal and organizational data. This response reinforces the need for continued efforts to strengthen the digital resilience of communities.
Additionally, building public-private partnerships is crucial to providing the resources required to enhance digital security infrastructure, while educational reforms must ensure that digital rights is embedded in academic curricula. NGOs have a central role to play by spearheading community-based digital literacy programs, addressing digital divide, and advocating for stronger data protection laws. Universities are also pivotal, responsible for developing research and academic programs that focus on digital security and rights, thus preparing future leaders to tackle these issues effectively.
By emphasizing digital education and data protection at the grassroots level, Sri Lanka can foster resilience against digital threats, protect its people’s rights, and guarantee equitable participation in the digital economy. Through the concerted efforts of all sectors, Sri Lanka can cultivate a digitally secure society where individuals are not only empowered with the knowledge to protect themselves but also inspired to advocate for a fairer, more just digital world.
References :
- Lanka News Web. (2024, October 10). Strengthening cybersecurity for Sri Lankan MSMEs: Launch of the APAC Cybersecurity Fund. Lanka News Web. https://lankanewsweb.net/archives/64811/strengthening-cybersecurity-for-sri-lankan-msmes-launch-of-the-apac-cybersecurity-fund/
Fernando, J. B. (2024, September 15). - Sri Lanka leads cybersecurity collaboration in South Asia. Daily FT. https://www.ft.lk/it-telecom-tech/Sri-Lanka-leads-cyber-security-collaboration-in-South-Asia/50-759163
- Fernando, J. B. (2024, October 24). The path to digital transformation in education in Sri Lanka. Net Mission. https://netmission.asia/2024/07/24/the-path-to-digital-transformation-in-education-in-sri-lanka-jenie-benedetta-fernando/
- Daily FT. (2024, September 30). Trailblazing pioneer in digital and cybersecurity education wins ISACA Sri Lanka award. Daily FT. https://www.ft.lk/it-telecom-tech/Trailblazing-pioneer-in-digital-and-cybersecurity-education-wins-ISACA-Sri-Lanka-award/50-766551
- 1World Connected. (2024, November 5). Asia Digital Skills & Gender Fusion in Sri Lanka. 1World Connected. https://1worldconnected.org/project/asia_digitalskills_gender_fusionsrilanka/
- Fernando, J. B. (2024, September 25). Towards digitally inclusive communities in Sri Lanka: The role of digital literacy. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371043291_TOWARDS_DIGITALLY_INCLUSIVE_COMMUNITY_IN_SRI_LANKA_THE_ROLE_OF_DIGITAL_LITERACY
